Delicious Deep-Fried Ricotta Appetizers: A Crispy Delight
If you’re on the hunt for a scrumptious finger food or a perfect appetizer, look no further! These deep-fried ricotta balls are creamy on the inside and have a beautiful crisp on the outside, making them simply irresistible.
Imagine little golden bites made from fresh ricotta cheese, lightly seasoned, breaded, and fried to a gorgeous perfection. They can be served on their own or with your favorite dips, adding to the flavor adventure.
This appetizer is a beloved staple at our Italian family gatherings, perfect for game days, holiday celebrations, or any cozy occasion that calls for a warm treat.
Whether you’re hosting a big event, planning an intimate family dinner, or simply wish to whip up a delightful hors d’oeuvre, this recipe will bring restaurant-quality flair right into your kitchen!
Why You Should Make Deep-Fried Ricotta Appetizers
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Ricotta, breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices blend effortlessly in no time.
- Perfect for Entertaining: These bite-sized goodies can be prepared ahead of time and fried just before serving.
- Crispy Yet Creamy: The outside of these appetizers stays crunchy while the inside remains soft and creamy.
- Crowd Favorite: Sure to please both kids and adults, they vanish quickly at any gathering.
Serving Ideas for Ricotta Appetizers
- Pair with marinara dipping sauce for an Italian classic!
- Drizzle with truffle honey for an elevated gourmet twist.
- Include them on charcuterie boards for that warm, cheesy element.
- Serve alongside holiday appetizers or with homemade dips like Alfredo or Marinara sauce.
Recipe Overview
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese (drained in a cheesecloth or coffee filter)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded provolone
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs (plus extra for rolling)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for some heat)
- 1 teaspoon roasted garlic powder or granulated garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil (or a mix of vegetable and olive oil) for deep frying
Instructions
- Begin by straining the ricotta cheese using a cheesecloth, paper coffee filter, or mesh strainer for about 30 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix the strained ricotta with Parmesan, provolone, egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- If the mixture feels a little too loose, gradually add more breadcrumbs, one teaspoon at a time, until it holds together nicely.
- Heat the oil in a frying pan over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- In a shallow dish, place about 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs for coating the balls.
- Shape the ricotta mixture into small balls using your hands or a medium-sized cookie scoop, then roll them in the breadcrumbs until they are fully coated.
- Once the oil is hot enough, carefully add the ricotta balls to the pan and fry them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown.
- Let them cool for a few minutes before serving, as they will be quite hot!
- Serve your delicious ricotta appetizers with an array of dips for an extra flavor boost!
Final Thoughts and Tips
These crispy ricotta deep-fried appetizers strike a delightful balance between creamy, cheesy, and crunchy. Quick to prepare and versatile for any occasion, they are guaranteed to impress your guests.
Here are some helpful tips:
- Drain Well: Too much moisture can make the filling fall apart, so draining is crucial.
- Chill Before Frying: Refrigerate shaped balls for about 30 minutes before frying; this helps them maintain their shape.
- Double Coat for Extra Crispiness: For an extra crispy exterior, dip the balls in egg wash and breadcrumbs twice.
- Use a Thermometer: Maintaining the oil temperature at 350°F is key; too hot will cause burning, while too cool can lead to greasy results.
- Make Ahead: Shape the ricotta balls in advance and refrigerate them, then fry just before serving for a freshly made taste.
